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The Ultimate Birthday Gift Guide: The Coolest Gifts for Kids, by Age

From the editors

Birthday party invite on the fridge and no idea what to bring? We've got you. Our Ultimate Birthday Gift Guide is sorted by age, from sweet first-birthday keepsakes all the way up to gifts for picky tweens and teens. It's packed with toys, games, craft kits and fun surprises in every price range. Pick an age and start shopping.

Age by age

Birthday guides

10 guides
Gift guide

The coolest first birthday gifts: Toys and keepsakes for 1-year-olds

Gift guide

The coolest birthday gifts for 2 year olds

Gift guide

The coolest birthday gifts for 3 year olds

Gift guide

The coolest birthday gifts for 4 year olds

Gift guide

The coolest birthday gifts for 5 year olds

Gift guide

The best birthday gifts for 6 year olds

Gift guide

The coolest birthday gifts for 7 year olds

Gift guide

The coolest birthday gifts for 8 year olds

Gift guide

The coolest birthday gifts for tweens ages 9-12

Gift guide

The coolest birthday gifts for teens

Good questions

Frequently asked

What's a good birthday gift for a 1-year-old?

First birthdays are more for the grown-ups than the birthday kid, so it's the perfect time for a keepsake: something personalized, a beautiful book, or a classic toy that grows with them. For little ones who are just starting to walk and explore, push toys, stacking and sorting toys, and soft dolls are always hits. See our coolest first birthday gifts.

What do you get a 2- or 3-year-old who has everything?

Toddlers love anything that lets them copy grown-ups, burn off energy, or make a big mess (sorry). Pretend-play sets, ride-on toys, chunky art supplies and sturdy books are reliable picks. Experiences and memberships make a great "no more stuff" option, too. Browse our picks for 2-year-olds and 3-year-olds.

What are good birthday gifts for kids ages 4 to 6?

This is peak imagination age, so look for building sets, craft kits, dress-up, early games and books they can start reading on their own. Gifts that work for solo play and playing with friends are gold. See our guides for 4-year-olds, 5-year-olds and 6-year-olds.

What do 7- and 8-year-olds actually want for their birthday?

Big kids want gifts that feel a little more grown-up: more complex building and science kits, strategy games, sports and outdoor gear, and anything tied to their current obsession. When in doubt, ask the parent what they're into right now. See our picks for 7-year-olds and 8-year-olds.

What's a good birthday gift for a tween?

Tweens (9–12) are very clear about what's cringe, so skip anything that feels babyish. Room decor, creative kits, tech accessories, games to play with friends, and gear for their hobbies tend to land well. Here are our coolest birthday gifts for tweens.

What should I get a teenager for their birthday?

Teens appreciate gifts that respect their taste and independence: tech, beauty and style picks, room upgrades, experiences with friends, or a really good gift card paired with something personal. See our coolest birthday gifts for teens.

How much should I spend on a kid's birthday party gift?

There's no rule, and it varies by community, but most parents keep classmate party gifts modest. A thoughtful small gift beats a pricey one every time. Our guides include picks in every price range, and our stocking stuffers and gifts under $25 page is full of affordable ideas.

What's a good gift for a kid's birthday party when I don't know the child well?

Go for crowd-pleasers that work for lots of kids at that age: art supplies, a fun game, a great book, or a building set. Include a gift receipt, and you're golden. Our age-by-age guides are a great shortcut.

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